Staircase Rapids Loop Trail: Easy Olympic National Park Hike
Staircase Rapids is a very scenic, easy and kid-friendly hike located in Olympic National Park, near Hoodsport, Washington.Â
- Mileage and Elevation: ~2.5 miles RT, ~500 ft elevation gain.
- Difficulty level: Very Easy, Kid-friendly
- Location: Hood Canal, WA. More precisely in the Staircase region i.e. eastern edge of Olympic National Park. Closest town to access would be Hoodsport, WA.
- Estimated time required: 2 to 3 hours.
Why do Staircase Rapids Trail
This is one of the hikes where the journey is more important than the destination. There isn’t an end-reward per se, but the whole journey of hiking this trail is very rewarding. The constant company of the Skokmish river and the the lush greenery of the old-growth forest is a feast for the senses.
We did Staircase Rapids Loop wth our 3 year old on a cloudy, rainy PNW spring day and it became the highlight of our 3-day Hood Canal getaway.
Hiked Staircase Rapids?
Old-growth forest, river views, and a suspension bridge make this one of the best family hikes near Hood Canal. We made a matching Staircase Rapids sticker for little hikers who complete the loop.
Staircase Rapids Hike Step-by-Step Guide
The hiking guide is broken down into 3 steps – Fork to Western Red Cedar, Trailhead to Suspension Bridge, Back to Trailhead
Fork to Fallen Western red Cedar [15 mins]
From the ranger station, as you walk towards the Staircase Rapids trailhead there is fork that takes you to a fallen western red cedar which is 14ft in diameter. The tree is huge and is a fun detour to explore with kids.
Totally optional, but it added ~15 mins to our overall hiking time.
Trailhead To Suspension Bridge [1 hour]
We opted to hike the loop trail in a clockwise direction, which ensures that the first half of our journey hugged the banks of the mesmerizing North Fork Skokomish River.
We were constantly rewarded with breathtaking views of the river’s vibrant blue waters cascading over rocks and boulders. We took turns venturing down the side paths to get an intimate perspective of the rushing whitewater.
Halfway through the loop, you will cross a suspension bridge which offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the surrounding forests, towering mountains, and the powerful river.
Back to Trailhead [1 hour]
After crossing the suspension bridge and soaking in the panoramic vistas, we began the second half of our loop, beginning the journey back to the trailhead.
Though the river views were now behind us, the trail remained equally serene and engaging with babbling creeks and the occasional wooden bridge crossing.
These features kept our little one thoroughly engaged and delighted throughout the return leg of our hike. With the flat, well-maintained trail, our toddler eagerly took the lead.
Towards the latter portion of the loop, we momentarily thought we had strayed from the intended path, as the river seemed to have disappeared entirely from sight. However, the trail ultimately led us back to the familiar Staircase Ranger Station, our starting point.
Alternatively, you can retrace your steps along the first half of the loop. Whether you choose to complete the full loop or double back along the riverbank, the Staircase Rapids Trail offers a truly nourishing journey through the edge of Olympic National Park.
Getting to Staircase Rapids Trailhead
Staircase Rapids Directions
From Hoodsport, the drive to Staircase Ranger Station is ~30 mins. The latter part of the drive is on gravel road and is bumpy. But it is also more scenic with unbeatable views of Lake Cushman all along the way.
Staircase Rapids Parking
Staircase area is on the eastern edge of Olympic National Park so you will need America the Beautiful / National Park Pass to get here. You can purchase it at the entrance or at the ranger station.
There are many parking spots here, but it is a popular hike so expect the area to be busy.
Tips for Hiking staircase Rapids Loop
Estimated Activity Time
You can estimate ~2 to 3 hours for this activity.
Add another 1 hour for the drive to/from Hoodsport on Hwy 101. So a total of 4 hours.
Kid and Family Trip Report
- Infants (upto 1 year) – Very easy for parents to carry in a carrier. Stroller would not work here.
- Toddlers (1-3 years) – Some stretches on the side hugging the Skokomish river require children oversight as the path maybe a bit narrow or there maybe boulders and stones to walk around. The return loop is flat and obstruction free for the most part. I would say parents can enjoy this hike with their regular oversight for child safety.
- Pre-school (3-5 years) and above – Can do this hike independently and will enjoy it
- Families – Great to do with older parents and as a family activity. You will have a very memorable time.
Amenities
- Restroom facilities – Vault toilets at the trailhead
- Cellular network – none
Food
Hoodsport is the closest town where you will find food options. Best to bring your food and snacks for the hike. On your way out, grab an Ice cream at Hoodsport Coffee Company.
Stay
Staircase campground is ofcourse the closest and the most convenient. There are many campgrounds, state parks, hotels, motels, RV parks and Airbnbs in this stretch and around Lake Cushman. Any stay option between Quilcene and Hoodsport will make for a convenient stay location.
Staircase Rapids Trip Planning
- Day trip – Staircase Rapids Trail is more doable as a day trip from Olympia. Might be a stretch from Seattle as the travel time may exceed the activity time and might not feel worth it. Combine it with other attractions near Hoodsport such as Lake Cushman.
- Weekend trip – On a weekend road-trip from Seattle or Olympia to Hood Canal, Staircase Rapids Hike would be on the top of my list. We did this hike on a long weekend roadtrip to Hood Canal in May.
- Best time to visit – Summer. NF-24 which connects northern end of Lake Cushman to Staircase area is closed Nov to May, so this may affect your access in fall, winter and spring.
Final Thoughts
Staircase Rapids is an all-time favorite hike that is suitable for all age groups and skill levels. When I think of a rejuvenating exprience in nature that brings you at ease, Staircase Rapids is one of those places for me.
If you like riverside hikes, then you will love exploring the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Area in North Bend, WA or Deception Falls in Stevens Pass Highway, WA.
